Commuters and motorists in Lagos faced hours of gridlock from Wednesday into the early hours of Thursday following the closure of the Independence Bridge in Falomo for maintenance and rehabilitation.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olukorede Kesha, announced on Monday that the bridge would remain closed until May 2025. She warned that the closure would impact traffic from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan. Motorists were advised to plan accordingly and use alternative routes.
Despite the prior notice, the closure resulted in immediate and severe congestion across Lagos Island. Stranded commuters resorted to alternative transportation such as ferries, while motorists lamented the absence of adequate traffic management.
Early morning rainfall compounded the situation, leaving many unable to reach their destinations on time. The worst-hit areas included Victoria Island and Ikoyi, where traffic came to a near standstill.
Tragic Incidents Amidst Chaos
The gridlock had dire consequences. A 70-year-old woman fell into a manhole while attempting to walk home after hours stuck in traffic. Her family, preparing for her birthday celebration, revealed that she required surgery after the accident.
In another tragic case, a seven-year-old boy died because his family’s vehicle could not reach a hospital in time.
Further reports detailed health complications due to the prolonged traffic. One commuter suffered severe ulcer-related pains after being stuck in the congestion for nearly 10 hours. Her colleagues had to bring her food to prevent further deterioration.
Frustrated Lagosians Take to Social Media
The traffic woes sparked outrage online, with Lagosians sharing their frustration. Social media users described spending up to four hours in gridlock, lamenting poor traffic management.
“Before you consider relocating to Lagos, just know that this is what you have to deal with. You can spend half your day in traffic,” one user posted.
Another commuter, who got home at 2 a.m. only to wake up at 5 a.m. for work, called the situation ‘abnormal.’
Government Response
Following public outcry, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited the bridge site on Thursday to assess the situation. He apologized to residents for the disruptions, explaining that the bridge’s deteriorating structural integrity necessitated urgent repairs.
The Federal Controller of Works later announced remedial measures to ease movement, stating that efforts were underway to reopen the bridge. However, authorities remained uncertain whether it would be accessible by Friday.
As Lagosians continue to endure the effects of the closure, officials urge patience and cooperation while emergency repairs are completed.
